Photo: Lawn Tennis Club – Rosewood’s first social tennis club – 24th September 1900
Rosewood History
SPORTS CLUBS
© Jane Schy 2024
Published 7/02/24
Horse racing took place in the Rosewood district from the 1860’s but they were not events run by official clubs. The race meets were usually organised by the local publican on land adjoining his hotel, or by small groups of enthusiastic residents. Races were held at the Seven Mile as early as 1862. On Boxing Day in 1874, races took place at Rosewood Gate for farmer’s horses only, on land near the Ryan’s Rising Sun Hotel and again in 1876. On Easter Monday in 1876, races were held at Walloon. The first races at Mount Walker were held in 1882.
The Rosewood Racing Club was instituted in 1886
At a meeting held at Rosewood, on Saturday night 13th March, it was decided to form a racing club to be called the “Rosewood Racing Club”, to be registered under the Queensland Turf Club rules. The meeting was well attended. Mr. W. Conn, of Hillgrove, occupied the chair. After a long discussion on the matter, the club was duly established, and the committee and officers were elected. Mr. J. J. Durack, of Moorlands, was chosen president; Mr. W. H. Brodie, of Mount Walker, vice-president ; Mr. C. N. Schureck, treasurer and Mr. B. Sloane, jun., secretary. After liberal support had been promised, a vote of thanks was accorded to the Chairman, and the meeting terminated.
Rosewood Amateur Turf Club
30th April 1913 – A meeting for the purpose of forming a race club was held in the School of Arts and was largely attended. Mr. J. P. Walsh was voted to the chair. The following were elected a committee:-Messrs. B. Sloane, H. J. Wendt, J. Bruce, R. Sellars, G. Clydesdale, W. Keane, R. Hennings, J. Evers, J. Griffiths, W. Stokes, W. Sloane, J. P. Walsh, and R. Bourke. The following officers were elected: Patron, Mr. Jas. O’Shea; president, Mr. Barney Sloane; secretary, Mr. R. S. Bourke; treasurer, Mr. R. Sellars. It was arranged that a deputation would visit the owners of the old racecourse in regards to the use of the track. The membership fee was fixed at 10s 6d. It was decided to affiliate with the Kedron Park Jockey Club. It was suggested that the first Saturday after the Rosewood Show would be a suitable date for the first meeting.
Rosewood Football Club – 1886
At a meeting of young men held in the Agricultural Hall at Rosewood on 19th May 1886, it was decided to form a football club. Thirty men were enrolled, and it was resolved to play under the Victorian rules.
1910 – Rosewood British Association Football Club
A team of British Association footballers from Rosewood journeyed to Walloon on Saturday 11th June 1910 to play a local eleven. The game resulted in a win for Walloon by 6 goals to I.
1919 – c.1940 Rosewood Ramblers’ Football Club (Juniors & Seniors) (Colours black and white)
Friday, 22 February 1926 – A meeting of the Ramblers’ Soccer Football Club was held in the White Rose Cafe. Mr. W. Johnson presided over an enthusiastic gathering. It was unanimously agreed that the old club be reformed, and that they take part in the West Moreton fixtures. Mr. Alexander, of Rosevale, was elected Patron of the Club, and Mr. J. Potts president. A number of prominent sporting men were invited to be Vice-Presidents. It was decided to ask Mr. W. Scorgie to accept the position of Secretary in place of Mr. B. Farrell, who had resigned. It was decided, if possible, to play in the club’s old colours. The membership fee was fixed at five shillings. The matter of procuring footballs and inflater, and the election of captain, &c., was left until the next meeting. The balance sheet showed a satisfactory credit balance, and everything augured well for a very successful season.
Queensland Times, Tuesday 4 August 1931, page 9
Ramblers Junior Premiers, August 3. The junior Soccer fixture, Rosewood Ramblers v. Booval Stars, was played on Saturday. Ramblers won by four goals to nil. Ramblers’ forwards dIsplayed great form. V. Bell scored two goals and J. Potts one. The other goal was scored by J. Tait. Stars’ goalie was trying to put over the bar when the ball slipped from his fingers into the net. Tait, however, played a great game. The game was refereed by Mr. H. Shelton. This win leaves Ramblers winners of the junior premiership in the Ipswich fixtures. This is the first time the Rosewood team has won the premiership, although in previous years they have been knocking at the door on several occasions. They are also well in the running for the Queensland Junior Cup.
The teams were-Ramblers: A. Turnbull, L. Murphy, T. Purnell. G. Roberts, J. Bell, T. Bennett, J. Potts. E. Potts (captain), V. Bell, J. Bennett, S. Purnell. Stars: J. Taft, R. Dowse, B. Denning, A. Tucker, H. Pyle, E. Savage, A. Richards, J. Thornton. R. Bognuda, W. Brown, A. Tait.
Ramblers junior minor team easily defeated Northtown at Booval by 7 goals to 2. R. Sellars (4). F. Wells (2), and P. Johnson (1) were the scorers for Ramblers. Mr. W. Burren had charge of the game.
1936 – Senior Soccer Team – At the invitation of Rosewood Soccer enthusiasts, five members of the Executive of the Ipswich and West Moreton British Football Association attended a meeting at Rosewood on the night of 21st April. Mr. W. Johnsons presided. It was decided to form a senior team. This was the first time Rosewood had entered the senior ranks. The team would take part in the Ipswich premiership competition, which were to begin in three or four weeks time. The Brisbane Association recommended that four teams from Ipswich and four from the metropolis would compete for the Tristram Shield. The inclusion of Rosewood made it rather interesting, as there would be five teams affiliated with the Ipswich association. On the following Thursday night a conference was held with two representatives from Ipswich, two from Brisbane, one from Bundaberg, the Chairman of the Soccer Council (Mr. E. Green), and the Secretary of that body (N. Stock) with a view to considering the dates of the “Telegraph cup and Tristram shield competitions. On Sunday (25th) Booval Stars visited Rosewood to participate in a friendly game. Practically every weekend Rosewood staged matches against visiting teams, and on occasion travelled to Oxley to play the Uniteds.
1937- Ramblers: J. Tate, H. Roots, T. Purnell, J. Bell, J. Potts, G. Roots, S. Purnell, V. Bell, C. Jones, C. Cowley, J. Bennett.
The club applied to use Anzac Park for the 1940 season. The request was granted providing they cut the grass, but no mention of them thereafter.
Rifle Club – 1887
On 20th December 1886, a meeting was held in the Agricultural Hall to form the Rosewood Rifle Club. The formation was approved 28th February 1887 (J. Lane Esq.) Designation: The Rosewood Rifle Club.
Saturday 4th June 1887 – Some ten or twelve members of the newly-formed rifle club tried their hands at driving holes through their new target. The rifle range was in a paddock kindly lent by Mr. J. J. Durack. Most of the crack, experienced shots were absent, those present being mostly raw recruits. The most successful shots were ex-Sergeant Collett and a Walloon gentleman. These were old hands at the business, and were followed, but a long way behind, by Sergeant Minogue, and Constable Twaddle. At the back of the field were the baker and the butcher, the latter being the winner of the “woode spoon.” It was reported that some of the “big uns” intended to knock the target all to pieces the first time they visited it. The recruits indicated that they would be glad to be shown “how to do it.”
The Rifle Range was completed by May 1894. This is the article from the Queensland Times, Ipswich Herald and General Advertiser, Saturday 19 May 1894, page 6.
The Rosewood Rifle Range is now satisfactorily completed. On Wednesday last, a representative from this journal, in company with Mr. F. Morton (the secretary) and Mr. R. Hodge, paid a visit to the range, which is situated but a short distance from the main road leading from the township, and at a reasonable distance from Rosewood. The work of creating the firing points, targets, marksmen’s post, and mounds was let by contract, and this having been finished, the range has been passed by a Government officer. The targets are situated on the land obtained by the club-a portion of a reserve-while the firing points are on private property, the use of which has been secured. The range is thirteen chains long, and three chains wide. The land when handed over to the club was nothing but a dense scrub, and the work of clearing the whole of which was effected by the members-was not by any means an easy matter. Four firing points have been provided-namely, at 200, 300, 500. and 600 yards, the latter of which has, in order to obtain the proper level, been constructed on a raised and substantial stage some feet high. These have all been tied with strong bush timber, covered with soil, in which natural grasses have been sown. A fairly high mound to rebut the bullets has been erected at the rear of the two targets, which are placed in excavated portions of the ground, the marksmen’s quarters-also constructed of substantial bush timber-being built between the targets. The making of the range has cost about £20, though of the two targets obtained only one had to be bought by the club, Mr. J. C. Cribb, M.L.A., having generously procured the larger one of the two. Although many improvements have yet to be made, the range is a credit to those members of the club who have worked so energetically to secure its completion, and many pleasant outings will no doubt be spent upon it. Mr. J. R. Atkinson, of Ipswich, measured the distance for the firing points when surveying the land and the members of the club greatly appreciate his kindness in doing so. The range will be formally opened on the Queen’s Birthday, when a competition between the members of the Rifle Club will take place, and will be concluded on the following Saturday. The prizes will amount in value to about £25, the principal ones being a sporting rifle (valued at £5 5s.), presented by Mr. J. C. Cribb, M.L.A., a £2 2s. cup donated by the Goldsmith Hall Company, and a pair of photographs given by Mr. W. G. Anderson per the firm of Scott, Dawson, and Stewart. Mr. Cribb will perform the opening ceremony by firing the first shot, and he will also preside at a concert to be given under the auspices of the club in the evening.
ROSEWOOD RIFLE CLUB 1907 – Photo by Taylor, Ipswich
Back Row: R. M. Bourke, J. S. Collett, B. Voight, W. Iszlaub.
Centre: J. P. Freeman (Shooting Captan), J. F. Collett (Club Captain), H. M. Stevens.
Front: W. E. Collett, J. E. Collett
The West Moreton Rifle Club Association held its annual meeting on Saturday, 21st December 1907. At the presentation of the trophies, Mr. J. W. Brook’s silver cup, valued at £7 7s, (won twice in succession by the same club or three times with intervals) was presented to captain of the Rosewood Rifle Club (Mr. J. F. Collett) by the Chairman of the Association, Mr. O. Perry, amid hearty applause. He also presented premiership medals to Messrs. J. E. Collett, J. S. Collett, W. Iszaub, J. P. Freeman, H. M. Stevens, W. E. Collett, B. Voigt, J. F. Collett and R. Bourke. The Rosewood club’s captain said they would take the trophy back to Rosewood with great pleasure, and it would be placed in a prominent position there, so that the public could see what the Rosewood riflemen could do.
On 29th October 1910 the official opening of the new butts at the Rosewood Rifle Range took place. Miss Mark fired the first shot, scoring a centre over the 500 yards range. She was presented with a gold scarf pin as a token of appreciation for her services on behalf of the club and Mrs McLaren was gifted a gold brooch for continually distributing the ammunition.
Queensland Times (Ipswich) Monday 10 August 1925, page 9
THE ROSEWOOD RIFLE RANGE. OFFICIAL OPENING. The opening of the reconstructed Rosewood rifle range took place on Saturday afternoon, when a large gathering was present. The President of the club (Mr. Eichstadt) extended a hearty welcome to Mr. W. Cooper, M.LA., and said that the Rosewood Rifle Club was one of the oldest In existence in Queensland. In apologising for the unavoidable absence of Mr. Francis, M.P., the President said that they had to thank Br. Francis for the improved conditions which the Commonwealth Government had effected. He also thanked Mr. Cooper for the interest he had taken in the club, and also for donations which he had given them. Mr. Eichstadt cordially thanked the ladies, without whose help, he said, the rifle club would not prosper.
Mr. Cooper thanked the members of the club for inviting him to open the range. He also paid a tribute to Mr. Francis for the work he had done for the club, and was sorry that he (Mr. Francis) was unable to be with them that day. Rifle shooting, he said, was one of the cleanest sports in existence, and he hoped the Rosewood Rifle Club would continue to be successful. Mr. Cooper then officially opened the range by firing the first shot at the 300 yards’ range, and was loudly cheered when the marker signalled a “bull’s eye.”
The improvements consist of an underground concrete gallery with stairway, the targets working on a shutter system through hatchway in the roof. The stop butts have been considerably enlarged, and a mantlet across in front of the targets makes for additional safety. The surface has been drained, and the gallery underneath will be entirely waterproof. The target house has been reconstructed and shifted further to the right, and the mounds at each range remodelled. The work was carried out by Mr. J. Bowles, of Rosewood.
A match took place during the afternoon between teams selected by the Captain and Secretary, and resulted in a win for the Captain’s team. Five shots only were allowed each man. The following are the scores-
Those present included-Mesdames F. J. Eichstadt, C. Wass, J. R. Allen, J. O’Brien, W. H. Collett, W. E. Collect, H. Collett, J. P. Freeman, L. M. Ryan, T. Canham, J. Bowles. T. Haines. W. Richardson, T. Shearer, F. Wass. J. Hines. J. A. Paroz, D. Elder. Besides those taking part in the shoot there were also present Messrs. L. M. Ryan, W. Wass, H. Rice, Walker (Ipswich), C. Dixon. R. Andrews and Lieutenant M. Bade.
Rosewood Hunt Club – 1891
William Ruhno was a foundation member of the hunting club which hunted kangaroos at the back of Rosewood Bluff in the 1890s.
20 June 1891 – The Rosewood Hunt Club have decided to hunt the wiley wallaby and paddymelon. Everywhere you go there are kangaroo dogs- a couple of very good ones have been brought from the Logan and Toowoomba. There is only one fault with the club-that is, they have no redcoats.
J. J. O’Carol and J. Burns won prizes at the 1891 Rosewood show for their kangaroo dogs. W. Dance and T. Retchslag were praised for their dogs at the Marburg Show that year. In 1894 F. Reilly (Nth Ipswich) and H. S. Cribb won 1st and second place for their kangaroo dogs. In 1899 W. McGill’s Ponto won the blue ribbon.
Rosewood Cricket Club – 1893
Queensland Times, Ipswich Herald and General Advertiser, Saturday 25 November 1893, page 2
Good old Rosewood! It is time that your young men developed their capabilities on the cricket field. At a meeting held at Rosewood quite recently, it was decided, I am informed, to form a cricket club, some twenty members having already joined, among whom I believe, there is some excellent talent. They are considering whether they will join the Ipswich and West Moreton Association.
1910 – CRICKET CLUB A meeting of those desirous of re-forming the cricket club was held in the School of Arts on Friday night 16th September. Mr. A. M’Lean occupied the chair. The following officers were elected:-Patron, Mr. A. H. L. Mort; president, Mr. A. M’Lean; secretary and treasurer, Mr. P. H. Adams, jun.; committee, Messrs. A. M’Lean, J. Watkins; E. Akes, E. Crabbe, W. J. Keane, F. Sattler. and P. H. Adams. It was resolved to play a fancy dress match the next month, to be followed by a dance in the evening. The secretary was instructed to request an Ipswich team to take part in the match. The president, the secretary, and Mr. J. Watkins were empowered to procure a supply of new cricketing material.
1911 – 25th September. A large and enthusiastic meeting of cricketers was held in the School of Arts. Mr. Alex. M’Lean presided. It was decided to pay half the cost of the new concrete wicket, which was going to be to put down in the show ring. It was also arranged to form a cricket association in the electorate, and a sub-committee consisting of Messrs. Geo. Crowther, Alex. M’Lean, J. P. Walsh, P. H. Adams, and W. J. Young was appointed to arrange with other clubs wishing to affiliate.
1921 – 12th July The Rosewood Wattles Cricket Club, applied to the Rosewood Shire Council for permission to put down an antbed cricket pitch on Anzac reserve, and asking for the use of the latter. The answer was that a pitch could be played on the recreation reserve, but not in Anzac Park.
19th January 1930 – Cricket. The Rosewood Colts defeated Calvert on Sunday by 19 runs. Scores–Colts, 122 (M. Donaldson 14, T. Bennett 14, Jim Bennett 10, R. Edgeworth 26, Jack Bennett 19). Bowling: A. Taylor, one for 19; W. Green, one for 23; C. Martin. one for 14; C. Wanka, one for 19: R. Kuss, one for 20; J. Patullo, four for 12. Calvert, 83 (W. Green 25, A. Taylor 23, C. Martin 13, J. Patullo 10). Bowling: Jack Bennett, one for 13; T Bennett, four for 19: R. Edgeworth, three for 18; Jim Bennett, two for 35.
Northern Suburbs Cricket Team, Rosewood ca.1938 (Photo: Kay Trevis)
Team names:- Arthur White, Jacky Smith, Ernest & Stan Blake, Dave & Harold Boughen, George Embrey, Peter Freeman, Pat Smith, Cec Hobbs, Joe Lergesner.
(Identified) Back left:- 1st Stanley Blake, 2nd Harold Boughen, 3rd Dave Boughen, three men, then last on the right Ernest Blake.
Front:- 2nd left Pat Smith (wicket keeper), 1st right George Embrey.
The first meeting of the club was held at Mr. A. Lergesner’s home on September 8th, when it was decided to nominate a team for the fixtures. Those present were: Messrs. M. Donaldson, R. Sellars, jun., E. Jesberg, J. Yarrow, W. Jesberg, J. Smith, J. Jesberg, A. Baills, J. Lergesner, A. Lergesner, J. Gunthorpe, and E. W. Murphy. Mr. M. Donaldson was voted to the chair. It was decided to form a club to be called the “Northern Suburbs Cricket Club”, and to enter a team in the Rosewood district competition. The following officers were appointed: Patron, Mr. R. Sellars; President, Mr. Maurice Donaldson; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. E. B. Maher, M.L.A., G. Hughes, H. M. Grant, Dr. Wallace, Messrs. M. J. O’Reilly, W. Feltham, A. Capern, J. M. Bruce, J. Roache, and N. Bade; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. R. Sellars, jun.; Committee, President, Secretary, Captain, Vice-Captain and Messrs. E. W. Murphy and J. P. Smith; Delegates, Messrs. R. Sellars, jun., and E. Jesberg. The captain, vice-captain, selection and ladies’ committees were appointed later. The subscription fee was fixed at 5/-, unemployed players to be admitted for 2/6. It was decided to approach Mr. J. Boughen for the use of the wicket on his ground.
By the end of the season the membership had increased to 29. After a few matches had been played. It was found that many members were not getting much cricket and at a meeting held at Mr. J. Smith’s home, it was decided to enter another team in the competition. Both teams played good cricket throughout the season, and although they were well back in the premiership points, they were not disgraced.
5th October 1937 – The newly-formed Rosewood District Cricket Association (Grandchester, Rosewood, Northern Suburbs, Lanefield, Thagoona) opened the season on Saturday 5th, when matches were played at Grandchester and Lanefield. Grandchester secured the first win of the season, defeating Rosewood by four runs on the first innings. The first ball of the season was bowled by Mr. T. H. Howell, of Grandchester, a keen cricket enthusiast, and a Vice-President of the association. Mr. Howell was a member of the Grandchester team in the days when the Creedys, Rafters, Jack Quinn, and himself very nearly comprised the Grandchester team. Grandchester was always a hard team to beat in those days, and the players were noted for the keen interest which they took in the game. That same spirit was shown by the members of the present team, who were practically all young players. C. Stokes, 42 not out, top-scored for the team and S. Collingwood compiled 32 and R. Ross 26. V. Kleinschmidt was their best bowler, securing six for 34. Rosewood players did their part to make the day’s play interesting. Included in the team were a number of the previous year’s “Colts,” and several of them showed good form. Norm. Ruhno joined Rosewood that year after a lengthy absence from the game and was an asset to the team. Vince Mullan had visions of at least a half-century when he had compiled 38, but Kleinschmidt clean bowled him. Jim Bruce and Tim Hannam, two Colts, each reached 21. Joe Potts (17) and Wally Grealy (14) were the other double-figure scorers.
24th August 1946 – At the annual meeting of the Rosewood Cricket Club, it was decided that the club be re-formed for the 1946-47 season. Officers elected were: Patron, Mr. N. Ruhno; President, Mr. W. Johnson; Vlce-President, Messrs. A. Sellars, W. Leeson, M. Daly, M. J. O’Reilly, A. J. Loveday, H. Freeman, J. Duff, E. O’Sullivan. C. Wall, and Miss C. Sloane; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. J. Lee; Assistant Secretary, Mr. O. Kleinschmidt; delegates to association, Messrs. J. Smith and M. Jensen; committee, the President. Secretary, Messrs. J. Smith, W. Cannan, and T. Hannam. Membership fee was fixed at 5/ and ball fee at 1/ per player per day. Application was made to the Rosewood A. and H. Association for the use of the wicket on the showground for the coming season.
28th September 1953 – NORTHERN SUBURBS HAS BIG LEAD
A grand bowling effort by L. Boughen, who took eight wickets at a cost of only seven runs, and a century by W. Freeman gave Rosewood Northern Suburbs a commanding lead of 197 runs on the first innings in an A grade match begun on the Anzac Park wicket on Saturday.
Suburbs batted first. Although he gave two chances, Freeman batted well for his 106. Best support came from D. Shirley with 33. Rosewood used six bowlers, two of whom each took three wickets. A number of dropped catches in the innings spoilt the bowling figures.
Rosewood was dismissed for only 19 runs mainly due to the bowling of Boughen and W. Smith. Bowling with a good length and turning the ball well at all times, Boughen had all the batsmen in trouble. He sent down six overs, two of them maidens, and five of his eight victims failed to score. Smith took the other two wickets.
Details: Northern Suburbs, first innings: Ted Sellars l.b.w., b. J. Gunthorpe 2; L. Boughen b. J. Gunthorpe 11; W. Freeman c. and b. G. Embrey 108; D. Parker c. M. Battaglene, b. N. Wyatte 17; W. Smith, run out 1: D. Shirley, h.o.w, b. J. Gunthorpe 33: R. Gardiner, b. G. Embrey 0; B. Ahearn, b. G. Embrey 1; W. Bade. run out 26; J. Parker, c. A. Berry b. K. McKey 4; R. Wruck, not out 3; sundries 12; total, 216.
Bowling: L. Merritt 0 for 52; J. Gunthorpe 3 for 54; K. McKey 1 for 20; B. Campbell 0 for 17; N. Wyatte 1 for 12; G. Embrey 3 for 49.
Rosewood, first innings: J. Gunthorpe, c. D. Parker. b. L. Boughen 1; B. Campbell, b. W. Smith 3; L. Merritt. c. D. Shirley. b. . Boughen 7; K. McKey, l.b.w., b. L. Boughen 3; W. Battaglene, l.b.w., b. L. Boughen 0; A. Berry, b. L. Boughen O; G. Embrey, b. W. Smith 5; N. Wyatte, b. L. Boughen 0; J. O’Neil, b. L. Boughen 0: K. Dobbs. b. L. Boughen 0; sundries O; total 19.
Bowling: L. Boughen 8 for 7; W. Smith 2 for 12.
24th August 1954 – FIVE CLUBS IN ROSEWOOD CRICKET
The Rosewood and District Cricket Association, at its annual meeting, decided to reform and affiliate with the Ipswich and West Moreton Cricket Association for the coming season. Officers elected for the ensuing year were: Patron, Mr. J. Heenan: president, Mr. W. Hawkins: vice presidents, Messrs. A. Sellars, V. Birch, and A. J. Loveday; secretary and treasurer. Mr. W. J. Clement; auditors, Messrs. A. D. Parker and E. Sellars: scorebook auditor, Mr. R. Wruck.
Five clubs, Rosewood, Rosewood Northern Suburbs, Lanefield, Walloon, and Warrill View, have reformed and will play in the association’s fixtures. The opening game of the season will be a social match between an association team and the Booval Cricket Club, to be played on the Rosewood Showground on August 29.
Lawn Tennis Club – 1900
The opening of the new Lawn Tennis Court look place on Saturday 22nd September. An awning had been erected and provided with seats for the accommodation of the large number of visitors. Mr. D. T. Keogh, M.L.A., in opening the court, said it gave him great pleasure to be there that afternoon, and he congratulated the members on the up-to-date court they had constructed. He wished the club every prosperity. Tennis was a game in which both sexes could take part, which was an advantage, as where the ladies were, the gentlemen would surely be.
Mr. Keogh said that the Rosewood Rifle Club and all similar bodies in Rosewood had made a name for themselves, and he trusted that the Tennis Club would also distinguish itself. He had much, pleasure in declaring the court open. Mr. Keogh then put the first ball over the net. The first round in the tournament for the medals began and resulted as follows: J. Quirk and Miss A. Hanlon beat Maher and Miss Hanlon 6 -2; Thomas and Miss Bourke beat Sharpe and Miss Farrell 6-3; J. Walsh and Miss O’Brien beat J. Toffley and Miss Farrell (15 points), 6-5; W. B. Rutherford kindly acted as umpire.
The committee spared no pains to make the function a successful one. On a section of wire netting around the court the word “Welcome” was worked in large letters made up of flowers and greenery, and the court was nicely decorated with foliage and flags. Refreshments, ample and dainty, had been provided by the lady members of the club. A case of soft drink was also kindly donated by Mr. WalterThomas, representative of Mr. W. G. Livermore, of Ipswich. Several toasts were proposed and duly honoured, after which the gathering dispersed. The club had about 20 members. The contests for the medals were to held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
During the afternoon a photograph was taken of the party. (See main photo above)
New Court – 16th December 1922 A pleasant function took place on Saturday afternoon when the Rosewood Lawn Tennis Club was officially opened. Besides the members of the club, a number of visitors were present in honour of the occasion. The president (Mr. W. E. Thomas), in a brief address, expressed the club’s appreciation of Rev. Father McKenna’s for granting the use of the land for the tennis court and in having the fence erected. He asked the members to co-operate in their efforts to reduce the present overdraft. The president then declared the court open and at his request Mrs. J. M. Bruce, patroness of the club, sent the first ball over the net . A very interesting exhibition match took place between Mr. F. Molloy (Ipswich) and Mr. C. Haley (Marburg), the latter winning by 8 to 2. The lady members of the club dispensed afternoon tea.
Congregational Tennis Club – 1903
A tennis club was formed in connection with the Congregational Church, and by all accounts looked like being a very flourishing one. A social to inaugurate its formation was held on Saturday evening, 7th March, in the Farmers’ Hall, and was very successful.
Rosewood Race Club 1913
1st May 1913 – A meeting for the purpose of forming a race club was held in the School of Arts. Mr. Jospeh P. Walsh, was voted to the chair. The following officers were elected: Patron, Mr. James O’Shea; patron, Mr. Barney Sloane; president, Mr. Richard Bourke; secretary, Mr. Robert Sellars: treasurer; Messrs. Wendt, Clydesdale, Hemming, Keane, Griffin, Bruce, Walsh, Stokes and W. Sloane, committee. It was arranged that a deputation should visit the owners of the old racecourse with regard to the use of the track. The membership fee was fixed at 10s 6d. It was decided to affiliate with the Kedron Park Jockey Club.
Rosewood Rugby League Football Club – 1919
In the lead up to the formation of a Football Club in Rosewood, the first rugby match of the season and the very first to be played on the new Anzac Park Recreation Reserve was held on Saturday 13th March. The Rosewood Rugby League secured a victory over the Brisbane Railway team by 14-6. They were entertained at Clifford’s Hotel. The Rosewood players selected were:- full back, A. Sellars: three-quarters, A. Imrie, D. Ryan, R. Little, N. Ruhno; five-eighths. J. Noonan; half-back, J. Sloane; forwards, V. McGuire, R. Millard, K. Carmody, P. J. Hogan, A Neville, and P. J. Sloane.
On the evening of 1st July, a large and enthusiastic meeting was held in Mrs. M’Laren’s rooms for the purpose of forming a Rugby League Football Club. Mr. W. Bourke presided. Present:- Messrs. W. Bourke, H. M. Sheppard, T. Pares, J. Hogan, R. Hines, J. Sloane, W. E. Thomas, P. J. Hogan, J. Coveney, J. Reddan, Jno. Sloane, J. Noonan, P. Sloane and N. Dean, (secretary). Mr. W .Cooper, M.L.A. was appointed patron, Mr. W. Bourke, president, and Mr. N. Dean, secretary, with a committee consisting of the president, secretary and Messrs. J. Sloane, T. Pares, and R. Hines. It was unanimously decided that a Rugby League be formed, to be called the “Rosewood Rugby League Football Club” and the colours to be black. The entrance fee was fixed at 5/. The secretary was instructed to purchase a ball and book of rules. The secretary was also asked to write to the Shire Council for permission to play in the park.
1934 – New Rugby League Club – A meeting of those interested in the formation of a Rugby League football team for Rosewood was held in Mr. G. Wright’s saloon, 16th April, when there were present: Messrs. F. Scanlan, W. G. Turner, V. J. Mullan, G. Wright, A. Sellars, W. Cannan, A. Ward, J. Johnson, R. Sellars, E. Wright, J. Batzloff, P. Flemming, W. Yarrow, F. Wright, S. Farrell, L. Hughes, and L. Boughen. Mr. F. Scanlan was voted to the chair and it was decided to form a new Rugby League team.
The following officers were elected- Patron, Dr. Wallace; President, Mr. F. Scanlan; Secretary. Mr. V. J. Mullan; Treasurer, Mr. G. Greenhill. A number of Vice Presidents was also appointed. The committee is to comprise, the Patron, President, Secretary, Treasurer. Messrs. T. Quirk, W. E. Thomas, E. O’Sullivan; coach, Mr. T. Quirk; trainer, Mr. A. Sellars. The Captain and Vice-Captain are to be selected later. One of them, with the Secretary and Mr. T. Quirk, will be the Selection Committee. Referee, Mr. A. Sellars; deputy referee, Mr. S. Farrell; linesmen, Messrs. E. Wright and S. Farrell; Social Committee, Messrs. F. Wright, J. Johnson, R. Sellars, S. Farrell, and the Secretary.
The Secretary was instructed to ask the Shire Council for permission to use the Rugby League ground in Anzac Park for the season. It was decided that the colours of the club be maroon with a white V and that the membership fee be 1/. Social functions were to be arranged as soon as possible to help raise funds for the purchase of jerseys. The Secretary was to procure a ball for practice.
The Secretary was to write to the Queensland Rugby League for copies of the latest rules of the game. It was decided to have two training nights a week, and Tuesday and Thursday nights were suggested. The Secretary requested that any spare jerseys from the old club should be handed in to him. It was decided to hold a working bee on the following Saturday afternoon to put the ground in order, and that a scratch match be played on the next Sunday. Mr. A. Shearer, local honorary Ambulance bearer, was asked to attend club games.
Rosewood Rugby League Team ca. 1956/7 (Photo: Barry Hinton Photographer: Val Broom nee Berlin)
Back Row: L-R Keith Dobbs, Ted Sellars, Arthur Williams, Ray Dickfos, Des Dickfos, Graham Wyatte
Middle Row: L-R Keith Lambert, Chester Maculan, Glen Brennan, Arthur Wass
Front Row: L-R Roy Berlin, Barry Abraham, Pat O’Neil
Rosewood Pony and Galloway Club – First meet 23rd October 1920
ROSEWOOD PONY AND GALLOWAY CLUB
Rosewood Hack & Pony Club – 11th March 1969
Lanefield girl, sixteen-year-old Jeanette Embrey, won the show jumping State Championship of the Pony Club’s Association of Queensland in 1973 at Beaudesert. Riding her 8-year-old galloway gelding “Sparks” in the 13 to 17 years class, Jeanette defeated 46 competitors. She received a gold medal, sash a trophy. Sparks was trained on the family’s Lanefield farm and could jump well above his own height. Jeanette stated riding ponies at four years old and joined the Rosewood Pony Club in 1970. She won may championships at pony club gymkhanas and district shows.
Photos with permission of Jeanette McLaughlin
Rosewood Swimming Club – 1920
A meeting was held in the School of Arts on Tuesday night, 7th December, when it was unanimously decided to form a Rosewood Swimming Club, and the following office bearers were appointed:-Patron, Mr. J. R. Keane; president, Dr. Wallace; secretary and treasurer, Mr. P. Sloane; captain, Mr. J. E. Evers; committee, Messrs D. Ryan, T. Quirk. J. Evers, Milne, and Stubbs, and Miss Keane. A number of citizens were appointed vice-presidents.
John Richard Keane offered the lagoon on his property “Moorlands” for use as a swimming pool. The matter of erecting dressing sheds at Keane’s Lagoon was left in the hands of the committee. A large number of members were enrolled. Mr. J. E. Evers offered to donate a gold medal to the swimmer making the best progress during the season.
The Club had their first swim at the Lagoon on Sunday 17th December, 1920. Situated about 3 miles outside of Rosewood, in natural settings of true rural beauty, Keane’s Lagoon formed an ideal swimming pool, being a fully quarter of a mile long and about 50 yards wide, the depth ranging from 27 to 30 feet.
By mid 1921 bathing boxes had been erected for ladies and gents, along with landing stages. The water of the Lagoon was said to be as clear as the water used in the Ipswich baths.
On 26th March 1923, William Harris, champion swimmer of Honolulu, visited Rosewood. The popular visitor received a civic welcome and banquet at the Farmers’ Hall after which he gave demonstrations of swimming at Keane’s Lagoon. Before a very large crowd of spectators, he demonstrated breaststroke and backstroke, Charlton and Hawaiian crawls, starting, turning, sprinting, a parody on the Hawaiian dynamite fishing, and took in hand several of the local swimmers. A couple of local contests for demonstration were arranged. Harris swam 40 yards in 20 seconds, which was a record for the pool.
In October 1924 the club decided to affiliate with the Ipswich Amateur Swimming Centre of the Royal Life Saving Society.
Rosewood State School Swimming Club – 1921
The Club had their first swim on 27th January 1921 at Keane’s Lagoon in a special part set aside lower down the pool. Over 50 boys and girls took part. It was planned to find some means of conveyance to and from the lagoon for future weekly swimming days. Dr. R. Wallace, Messrs. J. Evers, and P. Sloane did everything in their power to assist the school staff with the instruction in swimming each Thursday at Keane’s Lagoon.
In the first week of October 1924, the State School Swimming Club opened its season when about 40 pupils journeyed to the lagoon by bus under the head teacher, Mr Zerner. The following week about 20 of the senior pupils of the convent school visited the lagoon and had their first club swim under Dr Wallace, Messrs Clark, Regan, and Thomas.
The headmaster of the State school, Mr Zerner, gave a report on the Rosewood State School Swimming Club, which had 72 members. Seventeen certificates of the Royal Life-Saving Society and one medallion had been won by its members during the year. Teams of boys and girls had competed successfully in carnivals at Brisbane.
The same month the State School Swimming Club affiliated with the Rosewood Amateur Swimming Club, and the school committee asked for a life belt and a couple of buoys, so that life-saving could be taught.
Rosewood District Tennis Association – 1923
At an enthusiastic meeting of delegates from the various tennis clubs in the district, held Thursday night 3rd May 1923, it was decided to form the Rosewood District Tennis Association, affiliated with the Queensland Lawn Tennis Association, and travel to Ipswich to take part in the matches. Mr. W. Potts presided at the meeting, and representatives were present from Moorang, Ebenezer, Mt. Forbes, Mt. Walker, and the Rosewood and Conregational Tennis Clubs. The following officers were elected. Patron, Mr. J. P. Walsh; president, Mr. G. Nolan; secretary, Mr. J. M. Sloane; treasurer, Mr. L. Walton. It was decided to form a gent’s association to play matches every fortnight, and a mixed association to play once a month. The association comprised ten teams, six gents and four mixed teams. A set of medals was donated by a prominent local sportsman for the gents’ association. It was also decided to invite similar associations to send teams to Rosewood.
Rosewood Amateur Athletic Club – 1923
Daily Standard (Brisbane), Thursday 13 July 1933, page 6
New Club Formed.- That excellent worker in athletics, Mr. Malcolm Pettigrew, was at the last council meeting of the Q.A.A.A. as delegate for the new athletic club at Rosewood. This club comprises a number of young fellows who are keen on the game. They intend to conduct a sports meeting on Saturday, July 29, and invite as many Brisbane athletes, as possible to attend. It is to be hoped that there a good attendance from Brisbane to encourage this young club.
Rosewood Camp Draft – 1928
Rosewood Golf Club – 1928 Golf Links – 1929 (9 holes)
Queensland Times (Ipswich, Qld.), Thursday 8 November 1928, page 4
ROSEWOOD CLUB. The formation of a golf club at Rosewood, about three months ago, has been followed by quite an outburst of enthusiasm. The enthusiasm was first kindled by Mr. F. C. Gill, an energetic golfer, upon his arrival in Rosewood as Clerk to the shire council. A club was quickly formed under the presidency of Father O’Rourke, with Mr. T. R. Sweeney as treasurer and Mr. Gill as secretary. Members were soon forthcoming so that after eight weeks the membership totalled 47, together with 32 associates. The golf course is on Mr. Boughen’s property, about a mile from the township and adjoining the railway line. There are nine holes, with bogey at 36. Already the grounds have been put in good order, while the greens have been made with sand. The beauty of the surroundings is an added feature. The distances of the various holes are: 250 yards, 140, 180, 350, 440, 240, 130, 400; 280. There is room for 18 holes, or for the extension of the present holes by 50 to 100 yards. The course, which is well patronised on Saturdays and Sundays, has rapidly grown in popularity. Competitions have commenced, and are to be arranged regularly. Recent visitors included Mr. Constance, of the Goodna Club, who established a record for the club by covering the 12 holes in 75. Miss O’Brien, a Goodna associate, set a standard for the ladies with 93. The club extends a welcome to visitors, and looks forward with pleasure to matches with city and other clubs at a later date.
There was a good attendance today (19th April) at the official opening of the Rosewood Golf Club, which was recently re-formed. Ipswich professional (Mr. L Katterns), who was one of the many visitors, congratulated the club on the progress it had made. The course was in fair condition. Many Ipswich golfers were present, including Ipswich Golf Club President (Mr. J. Taylor). The competition was a nine-hole stroke event. A Burns, of Ipswich. was the winner of the best gross score with 38 off the stick. The best net score went to K. Jaggers (41-7-34). Jaggers also won the men’s long drive contest, and R. Edgeworth won the men’s approach. Miss K. Kavanagh, who plays with the Ipswich Golf Club, returned the associates’ best gross score with 58. The best net score was that of Miss C. Kavanagh (60-18-42). Mrs. N. Armitage won the associates’ long drive competition, the approach contest was won by Miss K. Kavanagh. [Queensland Times, Monday 20 April 1953, page 3]
1954 – HAPPY? The Secretary of the newly-formed Rosewood Golf Club (A. F. “Happy” Akes) told this one on himself last weekend. Last Saturday week there was a working bee on the Rosewood course. “Happy” went down and announced to the other toilers, “I’m not going to work this afternoon, I’m going to win the G. J. Saunders Memorial trophy at Ipswich tomorrow.” With that he wandered off to a quiet part of the course equipped with a bag of golf balls. “Happy” was quite satisfied with his workout after he had hit up to 400 balls between two gum trees. Next morning he was unable to get a mate to go to Ipswich so he was left no alternative but to hire a taxi for the 12 miles trip. When he arrived at the course he was puzzled to find no-one in sight. Eventually he found a man busy cleaning up the club-house and he approached him. “Are they playing the G. J. Saunders this afternoon?” he asked hopefully. “Come inside,” answered the cleaner, “there is the scoreboard, it was played yesterday.” Was “Happy” happy? What do you think? [Queensland Times, Saturday 12 June 1954, page 5]
Rosewood Amateur Wheelers – 1930
Cycling enthusiasts formed a new club at Rosewood, and interclub events were staged periodically between the Ipswich Wheelers and the newly formed club.
Friday 25th September – A meeting for the purpose of forming a cycling club for Rosewood was held in the Majestic Theatre. Mr. V. Pickle was voted to the Chair, and Mr. B. Nation was Secretary. It was unanImously decided to form a club to be called the Rosewood Amateur Wheelers and the following officers were appointed:- Patron, Mr. E. B. Maher, M.L.A.: President, Mr. N. J. Boughen: Secretary, Mr. B Nation; Treasurer. Mr. W. Baker: judges. Messrs. G. Pocock. A. Sellars and B. Pocock; handicapper. Mr. W. Bickle: starter, Major Marshall; time-keeper, Mr. W. Baker. The appointment of Vice-Presidents was left in the hands of the Secretary. The membership fee was fixed at 5/ for seniors and 2/6 for juniors. It was decided to have road races on that Saturday week for the seniors and juniors. Mr. W. Baker donated trophy for the junior race, and was accorded a vote of thanks.
Cyclists from Rosewood Amateur Wheelers, 1920s
Cyclists include Sir Gordon Chalk (3rd from left). He was born at Rosewood 16th May 1913 and was Premier of Queensland for a week, from 1 to 8 August 1968.
Rosewood Motor Cycle Club – 1931
At a meeting of local motor cyclists held on October 9, it was decided to form a motor cycle club, to be known as the Rosewood Motor Cycle Club. Mr. H. Wacker (Brisbane) was appointed patron. The following officers were elected: President and captain, Mr. T. Downie; vice-captain, Mr. A. Evers; secretary, Mr. A. Sellars: committee, the president, secretary, and Messrs. C. Freeman, A. Evers, and W. Haslingden.
2nd October 1938 – On Sunday afternoon 2nd, a group of club members visited the Seven Mile at the invitation of the Rosewood miners for the picnic held there. The large crowd present was entertained by thrilling displays of riding and by a display of solo and sidecar stunts. In several of the events, unrehearsed incidents had the spectators on tiptoe. In the sidecar potato race, the most spectacular event, some of the riders were over-shooting the pegs and crashes were only avoided because of the expert skill and dexterity of the riders in the solo events. One rider turned the wrong way and more thrills were witnessed. However, the rider, using all his daring, came out on the right side. The skill of the riders was at a high standard, and their performances were a credit to their quick perception and management of their machines.
Queensland Times (Ipswich), Thursday 10 August 1939, page 8
MOTOR-CYCLING. Club Run to Archerfield. By “Twin.”
Motor-cyclists had another feast of thrills last weekend, when events were conducted at Rosewood Speedway. Messrs. Boughen and Collett must be congratulated on the way everything was conducted. Apart from the bit of mud to be ploughed through in reaching the ground, everybody was happy. Some Ipswich boys will remember the mud for a long while. Outfits were in a bad way, and where deep tracks were cut riders and passengers were obliged to get out and push their machines to dry land. The next club run is to McLean’s Bridge on Sunday. It is near the Archerfield Aerodrome. Club members will leave Limestone Hill at 8.45 sharp. It will take the form of a novelty run. Everybody is asked to suggest games which may help to brighten the day. New members and intending ones are asked to attend. Events will be provided for the ladies. On August 25 an open acceleration test will be held at Briggs-road. Entries close on Saturday, August 19, at Collett’s and Boughen’s.
St. Brigids’ Tennis Club – 1932
A meeting was held in the Convent School room on 2nd November 1932 to form the St. Brigids’ Tennis Club. The following officers were elected: Patrons, Rev. Father O’Rourke and Mr. E. B. Maher, M.L.A.; President, Mr. F. Kelly; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. Evers. Messrs. John Potts, W. E. Thomas, F. H. Maskell, J. Murray. and W. Cormack; Chairman. Mr. M. Mehrens; Secretary, Mrs. M. Mehrens; Treasurer, Mr. J. O’Brien; Auditor’s, Messrs. Scanlan and E. O’Sullivan. The subscription fee was fixed at 5/ men and 3/6 ladies.
Rosewood Basketball Club – 1933
(More information will be posted here when found.)
A team from Rosewood competed in the country week carnival of the Ladies’ Basket Ball Association at Albert Park in Brisbane in August 1933. Affiliated with West Moreton Association in September 1933.
Toowoomba Chronicle and Darling Downs Gazette (Qld.), Friday 12 October 1934, page 10
BASKETBALL
Tomorrow, in Queen’s Park, the visiting team will be Rosewood, returning the visit of the Downs II team to Rosewood last weekend. The programme for entertainment is the game in the afternoon and dance at night at Glenvale, and a picnic on Sunday at Spring Creek, where the Rosewood girls will be initiated into the mysteries of the game of vigaro. The games in Rosewood resulted: No. 1, Rosewood 40, Downs 25; No. 2, Rosewood 42, Downs 36. The Rosewood team is a nippy set of players and are ably coached by Sergeant Scanlan and Constable Turner, both Toowoomba natives stationed in Rosewood. It will be remembered that Rosewood conquered Starlight III team in the Ipswich junior inter-district games. The following will represent the Downs Basketball Club in their match against Rosewood, Queen’s Park, tomorrow afternoon at 3 o’clock sharp. Players to bring refreshments: M. McNelly, I. McNelly, M. Muller, I. Muller, A. Bradley, I. Collins, D. Pamenter, I. Town, L. Sigston.
1945 – At a meeting in the School of Arts on Tuesday 6th March, it was decided to form a basket ball club at Rosewood. Mr. V. A. Shearer presided. Officials elected were: Chairman, Mr. V. A. Shearer; captain, Miss Betty Barnes; vice-captain, Miss Kathleen Neithe; Treasurer, Miss Beryl Loveday; Secretary, Miss Betty Pocock. It was decided to write to the Rosewood Shire Council tasking permission to build a court in Anzac Park. It was agreed to enter into the fixtures with the Ipswich Association. The selection of a team, uniforms, and other matters were under consideration.
Q. T. 9 April 1946 – At the annual meeting of the Rosewood Sports Club, it was decided to re-form the Basketball Club and field two teams. The Treasurer’s statement showed a credit balance of £15. Officers elected were: Patron, Mr. N. Ruhno; President, Mr. V. Shearer; Secretary, Miss Jean Clark; Treasurer, Miss Betty Evans; Captain. Miss Betty Pocock; Vice-Captain, Miss Jean Clark.
Affiliated with Ipswich and West Moreton Association in March 1947. In 1947 the team was called the “Rosewood Robins”
Basketball Team early 1950s (Photo: Therese and Bryce Hawkins)
Back L-R: Lorna Waller née Murphy, Kath Neith, Maureen Freeman née Jacobs, Glenys Coleman, Gladys Gunthorpe née Parnell.
Seated L-R: Joan Krebs née Langdon, Alice Bade née Chilcott, Lurlene Gardner née Murphy, Gwen Cassimatis née Hawkins.
Rosewood Gun Club – 20th April 1936
A meeting convened by Messrs. E. J. Battle and D. O’Brien, for the purpose of forming a gun club for Rosewood was held. Mr. E. J. Battle presided, and there was a good attendance. It was decided that a club be formed, to be known as the Rosewood Gun Club. The following officers were elected: Patron, Mr. W. Ruhno, President, Mr. H. M. A. Grant: Vice-President, Mr. E. J. Battle; Secretary, and Treasurer, Mr. S. Yarrow; committee, the President, Secretary, Vice-President, and Messrs. D. O’Brien. N. Aspinall, N. Ruhno, and V. J. Mullan. The appointment of captain was deferred. The entrance fee was fixed at 15/, with an annual subscription of 5/. The committee was to arrange for an early opening of the shooting, and material was to be purchased immediately. Clay pigeons were to be used, but for special shoots the club would use live pigeons.
The Rosewood Amateur Boxing Club – 1936
The Rosewood Amateur Boxing Club was granted affiliation and given permission to conduct a tournament on March 6th. Prior to this they were under the auspices of the Rosewood Amateur Athletic Club. Their first tournament was in 1935 as outlined below.
Queensland Times Thursday 26 September 1935, page 2
BOXING. Rosewood Tournament. ATHLETIC CLUB’S SUCCESS. ROSEWOOD, September 25. The first tournament conducted under the auspices of the Rosewood Amateur Athletic Club, held in the Majestic Theatre, Rosewood, on Monday night, was a great success, reflecting great credit on the organisers, Messrs. A. Shearer (President), A. V. Wildermuth (Secretary), and J. T. Wyatt (Treasurer). The door takings exceeded £16, and the big crowd included sporting enthusiasts from many other districts. About 25 ladies watched the performance. The bouts were capably handled by that well-known ringman, Mr. Barney Dwyer, while Messrs. Jack Walsh and Fred Evans proved themselves impartial judges. The timekeeper was Mr. E. J. Battle, and Mr. S. Yarrow was announcer. Attendants also were Messrs. A. Shearer (doorkeeper), Joe Potts (usher), T. T. Wyatt (clerk of scales), Jas. Wyatt (glove steward), and M. Yarrow (ticket office).
In the schoolboys’ tournament (four 1 min. rounds) Keith Willson defeated Eddie Dale on points. It was a good, even fight, and Dale put up a good performance in spite of a few pounds less weight.
I. Hingst (9.2) defeated A. Bonney (8.10) (four 2min. rounds). Bonney was aggressive, but lost points by open hand hitting.
K. O’Shea (7.56) won from J. Harvey (8.1). O’Shea put up a good performance considering that he gave away almost a stone.
C. Hogan (9.10) defeated C. Bonney (8.11). After a few exchanges in the first round, Bonney stopped a solid punch under the heart, and the towel came in from the corner.
P. Fleming (9.10) won from O. Kleinschmidt (8.10) (four l½ min. rounds). Fleming looked for a knockout in every round instead of boxing, otherwise the performance was good.
E. Morrison (8.12) defeated E. Gillow (8.91) in four l½ min. rounds. As the judges disagreed, an extra round was fought. After solid going, Morrison won.
L. Evans (10.12) defeated H. Koch (9.12) by a narrow margin. This was an even contest with points even until the last round. Evans’ aggressiveness won him the bout in the final round. It was a good performance by both.
T. Hefferan (10.0) won from D.Wallace (9.2) In four l½ min. rounds. Hefferan’s weight told in the last round.
An exhibition bout was given by T. Williamson (10.12) and W. Manz (11.6).
A challenge boxing contest. J. Wanka v. F. Batzloff, did not take place, the latter failing to attend.
It is the intention of the organisers to stage a similar night in the near future. Some handsome trophies have been promised. Donors of trophies for Monday’s tournament included. Miss C. Sloane, Messrs. T. Baker. J. Anthony. N. Ruhno, S. Yarrow, W. Baker, R. Brainwood, T. J. Higgins, and M. J. O’Reilly.
Tommy Burns Visits Rosewood For Boxing Events
Rosewood and District Trotting Club – 1937
A meeting was held in the Farmers’ Hall on the night of 19th October to discuss the formation of a trotting club at Rosewood. Messrs. S. H. Scells, J. O’Keefe, and W. Orr, of the Brisbane Trotting Association, and Mr. M. Scells, of the Brisbane Trotting Club, were present to explain the aims and objects of the association. There was also a representative attendance of trotting enthusiasts in the district. Those present were: Cr. C. Littmann (Chairman, Rosewood Shire Council), Messrs. E. H. Hughes (Secretary, A. and H Association), S. Farrell, W. Dance, A. Wendt, T. Young, J. Roache, W. D. Grant, W. Sloane, A. Baker, J. Wanka, H. Martens, C. Martens, W. Piper and Walter Dance. Mr. S. H. Scells thanked Mr. Hughes for calling the meeting, and said the object was to form a trotting association at Rosewood as a branch of the Brisbane Association.
It was decided to do this. Cr. Littmann was appointed Chairman, Mr. S. Farrell Secretary, and Mr. W. Dance Treasurer. Cr. Littmann thought holding trotting meetings in Rosewood would be a boon and a benefit to the district and if they went the right way about it they would get support. Messrs. W. Dance, T. Young, and A. Wendt were appointed delegates to the Brisbane Association.
Mr. Scells said they wanted to get trotting on a better footing. Rosewood was more central than Brisbane for trotting supporters, and, in the event of a club being formed here, they had been promised support from Boonah and other districts. In reply to a question, Mr. Scells said he thought it would he better for Rosewood to form a club of its own, which would be assisted by the Brisbane Trotting Club. He assured the meeting that they would get good support in prize money and horses from Brisbane. It was decided to form a club, to be known as the Rosewood and District Trotting Club. A committee comprising the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Messrs. E. H. Hughes and T. Roache, was appointed to make preliminary arrangements and submit recommendations to a general meeting to he held later.
Rosewood Speedway – 1939
The speedway was opened on 6th August by Cr. C. J. Murphy, Deputy Chairman of Rosewood Shire Council. The circuit was built during the War years on the Boughen’ family’s land and was the first purpose-built road racing circuit in Queensland and possibly Australia. It was a dirt track and was used high speed racing for motor cycles, motor cars and side cars, the last race motor cycle race being held in 1949.
Rosewood Fishing Club – 1946
At a well attended meeting in the Shire Office on 16th May, it was unanimously decided to form a Rosewood and District Fishing Club. In addition to about 17 members present, others willing to join will gave the club a membership of 25 to start. Mr. M. Donaldson was appointed President, Cr. I. Ham, Patron, Messrs. C. Stewart jun., and J. Davis Vice-Presidents, Mr. G. Dale jun., Secretary, and Mr. J. Davis Treasurer. The appointment of captain and weighing-in scrutineer would be decided at each trip. The formation of rules was discussed at length. Tentative arrangements were made for a trip early in June to Greenbank after the bream. A successful season was anticipated.
The Rosewood Fishing Club had its first outing on Saturday night (8th June) when members went to Tweed Heads. Captain for the night was Maurice Donaldson. Thirteen members participated in the competition. The total catch was 250. Les Wiegand, with 40 fish, won the competition for the highest aggregate of fish caught. His brother Ernie won the trophy for the heaviest bream, weighing 1¼lb., just beating Bob Brooks by an ounce. Members returned home on Sunday afternoon.
Saturday 19 April 1952 – It looks as though members of the Rosewood Fishing Club will have to look to their laurels. The Saturday night before last they caught 30 eels in a four-hour session at the Seven Mile, and thought it was a pretty good effort. A report just to hand from Kalbar states that children fishing in a hole in a gully on Mr. Albert Zahnow’s property bagged 62 eels in a matter of minutes. The methods used by the respective fishermen were a bit different, however, the experts (?) used rods and reels, but the youngsters ….?…… muddy and heaved the writhing mass out on the bank by hand. It is not stated if they received any bites.
Rosewood Bowling Club – 1948
A meeting was held in the School of Arts in 15th July, convened by Cr. Isaac Ham, for the purpose of the formation of a Bowling Club in Rosewood. Present were Isaac Ham, Cr. C. Murphy, Messrs W. N. Ruhno, H. Ross, A. Imrie, W. P. Grealy, N. J. Armitage, E,. Weigand, A. Sellars, A. E. Maxwell, G. Houston, G. Mackay, J. Wyatt, Len Boughen, V. Birch, J. R. Reid. Apologies: Messrs S. Trewick, E. O’Sullivan, J. Davis, N. Rackley, A. Loveday.
The following officers were appointed – Patron, Mr. H. M. A. Grant; President, Cr. I. Ham; Vice-presidents, Messrs. N. Ruhno, A. Sellars, E. O’Sullivan; Secretary, Mr. J. R. Reid; Treasurer, Mr. J. Davis; Auditors, Messrs. N. J. Armitage and V. Birch; committee, executive officers, and Messrs. H. Ross, V. Birch, W. Grealy, A. E. Maxwell, and N. J. Armitage. The subscription fee was fixed at £3/3/ for the first year.
9th February 1953 – At a meeting held in the School of Arts, it was unanimously decided to revive the Rosewood Bowling Club. The election of officers resulted: Patron. Mr. H. M. A. Grant; president. Mr. E. O’Sullivan: vice-presidents, Messrs. A. Sellars, A. C. Imrie, I. Ham. N. Ruhno, Rev. Father Treacy; secretary, Mr. A. Mizen; assistant secretary. Mr. G. Keegan; treasurer, Mr. W. P. Grealy; auditor, Mr. J. K. Jaggers; supervisor of works and construction, Mr. I. Ham. The committee had taken an option on a green site in Mill Street. Rosewood. It had an ample area and had a suitable water supply. It was resolved that the public be asked to support the venture financially and that debentures be issued for multiples of £10, at 5 per cent. interest, repayable 10 years from date of issue. Approximately £200 was promised from several members of the committee present. Until the club became operative, a nominal membership fee of 10/ per annum was payable by foundation members.
RSL Sports Club/Gymnasium – 1951
At a meeting of the Rosewood R.S.S.A.I.L.A. Sub-branch on Wednesday night, 5th September, the formation of a sports club in Rosewood was discussed. It was decided to form such a club to be called the R.S.L. Sports Club. Officers elected were: Patron, Dr. Rawle: president. Mr. G. R. Park; secretary, Mr. E. A. Edgeworth: treasurer, Mr. R. H. Kerle; committee. Messrs A. E. Smith, J. Leonard, E. Wright, A. Stephan and J. Madden. The Secretary was instructed to ask the A. and H. Association for permission to use the show pavilion as a gymnasium. A set of rules was drawn up and accepted. Mr. Allan Bailey (new resident) was appointed supervisor of the gymnasium. Mr. Bailey was a Golden Gloves holder in 1948, runner-up in the State titles 1949, and undefeated metropolitan champion In 1948, 1949 and 1950. He retired in 1950. The President and Secretary said Rosewood was very fortunate to have the services of Mr. Bailey. It was pointed out at the meeting that the R.S.S.A.I.L.A. was not interested in any financial gain from the operation of the gymnasium, but merely proposed to place it on a footing where it could fulfil its own financial obligations. It was decided to spend approximately £75 on the purchase of gear for the gymnasium, the money to be refunded to the league from public subscriptions and donations. Mr. Kerle offered to supply some materials until the committee could obtain its own materials.
The R.S.L. Gymnasium was opened 12th February 1952 in the show ground pavilion. Mr. Allan Bailey, well known in boxing circles, (winner of the Golden Gloves in 1948) was appointed instructor. By April the gym had 40 members and training nights were Monday and Wednesday.
Queensland Times (Ipswich, Qld.) Thursday, 7 August 1952, page 7
ROSEWOOD BOXING TOURNAMENT ROSEWOOD. August 5. -The R.S.S.A.I.L.A. Gymnasium Committee intends to conduct its first boxing tournament in the showgrounds on a Saturday late this month. Thirty trophies already hare been donated by members of the committee and business people of the town. Fifteen bouts are to be arranged.
The committee is appreciative of the Fassifern Boxing Association’s gesture n cancelling a tournament planned for the same date as the Rosewood one. The Fassifern Boxing Association members intend to compete at the Rosewood tournament. The winners and the losers of all contests will receive trophies.
Mr. G. R. Park, (President) has approached Mr. F. Ruhno, who has consented to charter a plane, if possible. and with Mr. Park’s assistance, to distribute pamphlets from the air over Ipswich, Lowood, Rosewood, Gatton, Laidley, Boonah, Kalbar, Harrisville, and Aratula. The pamphlets will be numbered and the holder of the winning number will receive a trophy on the night of the tournament.
Officials are:- Referee, Mr. W. White (Boonah); judges, Messrs. R. H. Kerle and R. Jackwitz: medical examiner, Dr. Rawle; time-keeper, Mr. A. E. Maxwell; match maker, Mr. A. Bailey: weigher. Mr. A. Sellars; announcer, Mr. A. E. Smith; strappers. Messrs. T. Isles and A. Stephen.
Queensland Times (Ipswich, Qld.) Tuesday, 26 August 1952, page 3
BOXING TOURNEY ROSEWOOD, Aug. 25.
A crowd estimated at 400 attended the amateur boxing tournament conducted by the R.S.S.A.LL.A. Gymnasium Committee (Rosewood) at the showgrounds on Saturday night. The venture was a splendid success from every point of view.
Mr. G. Whittaker, Secretary of the Queensland Amateur Boxing Association, is to be commended for his even matching. Boxing. has been taught at Rosewood Gymnasium two nights a week under the supervision of Mr. Allan Bailey. Officials were:- President, Mr. G. R Park; secretary, Mr. J. Leonard; referee, Mr. L. White (Boonah); judges, Messrs. R. H. Kerle (Rosewood) and R. Jackwitz. (Ipswich); medical examiner, Dr. Rawle; announcer, Mr. A. E. Smith; glove stewards, Messrs. T. Isles, K. Clare; timekeeper, Mr. A. E. Maxwell.
The main fight was a brisk bout between G. Richter (Boonah) and J. Wilson (Banyo). Both lads gave a pleasing display, the former winning on points.
Results – R. White (Ashwell State School). 3.13, defeated F. Roberts (Banyo), 4.1; M. Boyd (Rosewood), 4.3. was defeated by N. Lambert. (Killarney), 4.3; T. Hohnke (Rosewood), 4.10. defeated J. Livermore (Booval), 4.6; P. Randall (K’lgun), 3.7, defeated T. Muller (Booval), 3 6; C. White (Ashwell State School), 6.2, defeated H. Craig (Ipswich R.S.L.), 6.4; A. James (Ipswich R.S.L.), 7.5, defeated D. Grimsey (Boonah), 7.5; P. Roeton (Banyo), 7.13, defeated D. Miller (Booval), 7.9; J. Roeton (Banyo), 4.8, defeated J. Harm (Ipswich R.S.L.), 4.8; R. West (East Brisbane), 8.10, defeated R. Graham, (Killarney), 9.1; P. Morris (K’lgun), 4.10, defeated D. Muller (Booval), 4.12; K. Molloy (Ipswich R.S.L), 10.2, defeated N. Stenzel (Boonah), 9.13; K. Donaldson (K’lgun), 5.12, defeated B. Ramsey (Booval). 6.2; R. Yarrow (Ashwell), 7.2. was defeated by E. Kerle (Rosewood), 6.12: O. Kunde (Rosewood), 11.6. defeated J. Price (Dundas) on a k.o. in the third round; K. Litzow (East Brisbane), 10.10. defeated A. Curran (Police Club), 11.2: G. Richter (Boonah), defeated J. Wilson (Banyo).
The President thanked all who in any way had contributed to the success of the tournament.
Queensland Times (Ipswich, Qld.), Tuesday 10 March 1953, page 3
£80 FOR ROSEWOOD BOXING RING ROSEWOOD, Mar.9 -At a special meeting of the Rosewood R.S.S.A.I.L.A. sub-branch and the Gymnasium Club Committee on Friday night the sub- branch agreed to lend the committee £80 to build a boxing ring for the tournament on April 11.
The money will be repaid during the current year. Mr. G. Freeman jnr., offered to stand guarantor on behalf of the club to the extent of £30. The Secretary (Mr K. Clare) was instructed to approach the various organisations of the town for financial support. Mr. A. Stephan presided over the meeting, which was held in the School of Arts. I twas decided that the President, Secretary and. Treasurer of the. R.S.L. sub-branch automatically become the corresponding officer of the committee. Mr. T. Isles was appointed assistant secretary.
Rosewood Aquatic Centre 1966
Mill St, Rosewood. Opened in October 1966 as ANZAC Park Swimming Pool . In 1968 entry to the pool was 5c.
Snippet of info: Fred Simpson (ex RAAF), brought his family to live in Rosewood in 1971. Fred managed the pool for the Council. He employed Phill and Vicky Embrey to run the pool for 4 seasons in the late 1980s. 1987/88 Entry to the pool was 50c for children under 15 and adults $1.
In December 2014, a Pelican pool and spa hoist, floating sling and wet area wheelchair was installed at the Rosewood Aquatic Centre. New Hope Colliery and the Rosewood and District Community Bank jointly provided half of the $15,000 needed to supply and install it and the other half was covered by Ipswich City Council. The equipment made accessing the pool facilities accessible for people with a disability as well as local seniors.
The pool has now reached the end of its useful life. The council is considering the planning and construction of a new centre.
Swimming centre – late 60’s (Photo courtesy of Spencer Yarrow, whose car is parked in front.)
Rosewood Judo Club – 1969
Barry Fechner, who held a black belt for Judo, started the club in the Farmers’ Hall and ran it for 18 years.
Rosewood Roosters Rugby League Football Club – 1977
The Club was founded in 1977 with Senior and Junior teams. Home ground: Anzac Park
Rosewood Gymnastic Club – 1977-1984
In 1977 Graham Thouard started a Gymnastic Club in the Memorial Hall in William Street, Rosewood. He commenced from humble beginnings to eventually having one of his young gymnasts (Jon Duncan) become a member of the Queensland Gymnastic Team. Graham’s wife Gloria was also a coach with the gymnastics club and was instrumental in running a programme for children with mild disabilities.The club was a very successful club with sessions running over three days each week with a large number of coaches caring for up to 100 young gymnasts. Sessions were held every Wednesday and Friday nights, Saturday mornings and Sundays as required.
Rosewood District BMX Club – 1986
In 1986 Louis Borg, a contractor from Matthew Street, Rosewood, assembled a committee and the Club was formed. Louie found out, from a conversation with councillor John Nugent, that the old police lockup at Rosewood was marked for demolition. He suggested it would make a good club house, and within the year the old lockup was given to the club. Many hours of work by a small group of volunteers set the club up and running. The track closed in 2000 due to dwindling membership.
Rosewood Little Athletics Club – 1986
Lynne O’Donnell, in conjunction with Ken Marsh and Alan Jones, established the club in 1986.